Dodge the Bullet: What you can do to lower your risk of dementia

Genes play a part in the risk of developing dementia, but according to Dr. Paul Thompson, professor of neurology at the University of California-Los Angels School of Medicine, genes are not the dominant factor. Here are some things individuals can do to keep their brain healthy over the long term:

2. Weight Control: The heavier a person is the more likely he/she is to develop Alzheimer’s. Fat gets deposited in the brain and narrows blood vessels that deliver the oxygen and fuel that keeps our brains healthy.

4. Social Connections: People with larger social networks seems to been less affected cognitively as they age. Psychological distress over a long term raises the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Social interaction may be part of stimulating the brain to make new connections. Make friends and have fun.

5. Healthy Diet: A diet higher in vegetables and fruits and lower in fat seems to be protective of the brain. Eat right–veggies and fruits with darks skins; green leafy cruciferous veggies; fish high in omega-3 fatty acids; and some nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans) with high levels of vitamin E.